Former state lawmaker Karen Middleton joining Pro-Choice Colorado next month

Former state Rep. Karen Middleton next month will become executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado.

Former state Rep. Karen Middleton.

In a news release dispersed by the group Monday, it notes that Middleton’s “hiring follows a reorganization and subsequent national recruitment as the Colorado reproductive rights leader extends its political activities.”

“This is a transformative hire for Colorado and the women and families we represent,” Travis Leiker, chair of NARAL’s board of directors, said in a statement. “Middleton brings a wealth of skills to the job – knowledge of the legislature, a record of accomplishments, a proven fundraising track record and she understands Colorado’s policy landscape.”

The group’s mission statement says it looks to “guarantee every woman the right to make personal decisions regarding the full range of reproductive health choices, including preventing unintended pregnancies, bearing healthy children and choosing legal abortion.”

Middleton, a Democrat, back in February withdrew her name from consideration after she surfaced as a possible 2014 candidate in the 6th Congressional District. At the time, Middleton told The Denver Post that because of the McCain–Feingold Act — a federal campaign finance law — there would be a conflict with her potential candidacy and her current role as president of the 527 political organization Emerge America.

Leiker said Middleton will step down from her role at Emerge America at the end of the month.

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.